This blog is an attempt to replace our assumptions about gentrification with substance, or at least something approaching substance.

Some of the most telling stories about gentrification are found not in works of journalism but in the online comments following them. First-hand accounts of how gentrification makes the people of our cities feel, however, don’t belong buried in comment threads or wrapped up in neat quotes. I am hoping that this blog will bring the stories of ordinary residents to the front of the debate on gentrification.

Please send your stories to gentrificationstories@gmail.com. What qualifies as a “story?” Well, anything you want really…but here are some suggestions to get you going:

How has your street/block/neighborhood changed?

How have you changed your street?

Do you feel welcome in your neighborhood?

What’s not being said out loud?

Do you feel guilty?

Do you feel attacked?

Why do you live where you live?

Do you think what’s happening in your neighborhood is being accurately depicted in the media?

Have you been displaced?

Has anyone else?

What’s missing in your neighborhood?

What do you miss about your neighborhood?

For purposes of categorization and tagging, I’d appreciate it if you’d include the name of your neighborhood in the “Subject” line of your email. Your email address and personal information will never be published to this site or any other site and will not be shared with anyone. All relevant submissions will be posted as received, including critiques of the blog itself if you have them.